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BMW explains their triple turbo Diesel motor with an animation

When we first heard about these upcoming triple turbo motors from BMW many of us scratched our heads wondering exactly how they would work. Rumors abounded. Two gas turbos and an electric turbo? A compound turbo setup? Well, this video should clear things up and explain how BMW is able to hit 381 horses and 546 pound-feet of torque in a production 3.0 liter diesel six cylinder. To have so much technology (like 3 variable turbine geometry turbos set to come on and supplement each other at different rpm ranges) not make it to the United States makes us want to cry. Watch the video and try not to shed any tears.

This thing is amazing. Who would have thought that a 3.0 liter diesel could create that much power and remain that efficient (35 MPG if I calculated that right)... You almost wouldn't need a transmission if they put it in something like a 1 series.

But as usual BMW letting the US enthusiast down. So I say $#@! THEM!!! they sure as $#@! not gonna get my cash when I'm looking for a new ride. The new M3 will have to be really really special to wanna stay with BMW.

So how is this manifold set up to accommodate 3 turbos exactly? It's tough to see much of anything in the video.

Actually now that i watch it again, it IS a setup. Similar to how we do the american diesels.

Exhaust from the top two turbines feeds into the main turbine at the bottom.
Meanwhile the initial intake charge is pumped through the main compressor at the bottom, gets compressed and fed into the two upper compressors and then fed to the intake manifold.

This most likely ensures low EGTs and emissions. Compound setups on 5.9, 6.6 and 6.7L diesels here routinely make 600+hp and 1200-1300ft/lbs, and EGTs are usually in the 1000 degrees F range.

Diesels rely on injection timing and lots of air to ensure complete combustion. Too much fuel and not enough air leads to high EGTs and melted pistons. When you stress the motor under heavy load (aka towing), compounds can supply enough air in the midrange to keep the motor happy and still be driveable.